Joint Use of El Toro Trades Problems

I share the concern over the mounting pressure by some to convert the Marine Corps Air Station, El Toro, into a “joint use” air facility.

I have spoken out strongly against this nonsensical and harmful proposal, which would only trade one set of problems (John Wayne Airport) for another and worse set of problems for those living in the Saddleback Valley.

A real solution to the need for increased airport capacity lies in the effort to locate a suitable additional site elsewhere in the county or nearby with a regional facility. I have assisted such efforts and am prepared to continue doing so.

Since various internal and external forces appear determined, however, to impose joint or commercial use of El Toro, the formation of the Coalition for a Responsible Airport Solution should be cause for great optimism among my constituents.

I applaud the steering committee for its tremendous achievements in bringing together such key community organizations. I believe the coalition can and will play an extremely significant role and benefit our entire county in constructively resolving our flight capacity needs.

GIL FERGUSON

Assemblyman

70th District